Explore the Natural Beauty of Yellow River State Forest
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Yellow River State Forest, Iowa's premier destination for nature lovers and explorers.
Yellow River State Forest is a stunning natural retreat in Iowa, offering a wealth of outdoor activities, breathtaking vistas, and a rich ecosystem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, this state park is a must-visit for tourists seeking tranquility in nature.
A brief summary to Yellow River State Forest
- 729 State Forest Rd, Harpers Ferry, Iowa, 52146, US
- +1563-586-2254
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the fall for stunning foliage and colorful landscapes.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the forest is home to various bird species.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic lookout points.
- Check for seasonal events or guided hikes offered by park staff.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the more rugged trails.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, the easiest way to reach Yellow River State Forest is to start from the nearest city in the Driftless Area, such as Decorah, IA. From Decorah, head east on IA-9 E for about 16 miles until you reach the junction with IA-76 S. Take a left onto IA-76 S and follow it for approximately 11 miles. You will then turn right onto State Forest Rd, and after about 1.5 miles, you'll arrive at the Yellow River State Forest entrance located at 729 State Forest Rd, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146. Parking is available on-site, and there are no fees for parking.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Decorah to Waukon, IA. Once in Waukon, you may need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to reach Yellow River State Forest, as public transport options may be limited. The distance from Waukon to the forest is approximately 15 miles, so a taxi ride could cost around $20-$30 depending on the service. Make sure to check the local bus schedule for the most current times and availability.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, cycling to Yellow River State Forest is an option. If you're in Decorah, you can bike along the scenic River Road, taking advantage of the beautiful landscapes in the Driftless Area. The route to the forest is approximately 27 miles and will take about 2 hours depending on your cycling speed. Ensure you have the proper gear and check the weather before embarking, as some sections may be hilly.
Discover more about Yellow River State Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Andy Mountain Cabins
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Old Military Road Historical Marker
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Brisbois House
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Prairie du Chien - Historical Marker #116
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Little Switzerland Inn
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Prairie Fun Land
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Windsor Place Inn
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Black Hawk Bridge
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Wyalusing Hardwood Forest
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Sny Magill Creek
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Blackhawk County Park
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Log Cabin Heritage Park
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Upper Iowa River
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Decorah High Point Cabins
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Montauk Historic Site
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Unmissable attractions to see
Big Paint Campground
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Yellow River State Forest - Yellow River Unit
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Scenic View Campground
8.1 km
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Hanging Rock
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Third Scenic View
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Twin Views
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Fire Point
10.4 km
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Effigy Mounds National Monument
10.5 km
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Effigy Mounds National Monument Visitor Center
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Effigy Mounds South Unit
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Gilly's Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
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Bear Foot Bay Indoor Water Park
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Rafting on the Mississippi Historical Marker
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Lawler Park
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Villa Louis Historic Site
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Essential places to dine
Portside Bar and Supper Club
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Winneshiek Bar & Grill
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The Barn Restaurant
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The Depot
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Fort Mulligan's Grillpub
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Simply Cafe
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Pete's Hamburger Stand
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The Old Man River Restaurant & Brewery
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Huckleberry's Restaurant
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Jones' Black Angus
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Great River Roadhouse
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Bill's Boat Landing
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Toppling Goliath Brewing Co
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Lynch BBQ Co
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Don Jose Family Mexican Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Paint Creek Gifts
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Silhouette Antiques
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Cabela's
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Sunglass Outfitters by Sunglass Hut
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Unique Antiques
15.2 km
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Produce Patch
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Cannery
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STARK'S SPORT SHOP
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Front Porch Quilts
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The Broken Ladder
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The Planted Tree Gallery & Gifts
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The Sweet Tooth
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The Market on Blackhawk
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The Pickett Fence
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Waterville Bar & Grill
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River Run pub &Grub
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Spillway
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Spring Lake Inn
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Mitchell's Liquor Box Tavern And Tackle
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The Sportsman's Club
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The Old Rossville Store
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The Crooked Oar
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Buckhorn Grill & Pub
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Marquette Bar & Cafe
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Le Casino View
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Rowdy's
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The Blackhawk
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City Sounds Dance Club
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The Tavern
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